An urgent meeting of Gedolei Yisroel was convened this past Sunday in Lakewood to address growing concerns over the dangers posed by open artificial intelligence to Klal Yisroel.

The asifa was called by the Rosh Yeshiva of South Fallsburg, Rav Elya Dov Wachtfogel, and took place at the Ateres Chana/Bais Faiga Hall.

During the lengthy gathering, the Gedolim discussed at length the spiritual and societal risks associated with open AI, with particular emphasis on easily accessible chat platforms available via home and cellular phones. Participants warned that such technology can foster dependency and addiction, create artificial or false relationships that undermine genuine human connections, and open the door to serious Torah transgressions. Special concern was expressed for vulnerable populations, including children, bochurim, and Bais Yaakov girls.

After hours of deliberation, the asifa concluded with a decision to designate a yom tefillah and a fast day. Krias HaTorah of Vayechal will be read at Mincha. On that day, roshei yeshivos, roshei kehillos, chadarim, and Bais Yaakov schools are to address the dangers of this issue and work to establish clear boundaries, including eliminating the use of calling or texting open AI. Practical steps discussed included the introduction of phones and phone lines that block access to open AI, with the goal of establishing a communal standard rendering such use unacceptable in homes, yeshivos, and schools.

The asifa was attended by many of the Ziknei Roshei HaYeshiva, as well as Admorim and Rabbonim representing chassidish and sephardic communities.

Jooish News

Jooish News